Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 28th of May.
Good morning, Bloomington.
Bloomington-Normal native Mindy Crow launches a pop-up roller skating event Wheelz on Sunday, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Interstate Center (1106 Interstate Dr.), featuring family sessions, a halftime show with Maestro Jones, food trucks, and raffles benefiting local charities.
State Farm in Bloomington announced a compensation cut that will lower agent pay and end retiree benefits — the move is part of a plan to simplify contracts and boost digital services while preserving local customer support.
Miller Park Zoo will celebrate its 135th birthday on Saturday, June 6 at 3 p.m. at the zoo with a community party—featuring family games and activities; admission is $9 for adults, $7 for kids and seniors while parking and entry for children 2 and under are free.
Al Oltmanns is set to become Heartland Theatre Company's new artistic director today—replacing Rhys Lovell after over a decade; he plans to broaden the season with open forums and trivia events that invite community feedback and diverse casting.
Michael Brown of the Ecology Action Center recommends residents opt out of the aggregation program—Ameren offers nearly $140 less annually than Direct Energy's locked-in rate from June through August, so customers in Bloomington should consider switching to save money.
The City Council approved boundary changes on Tuesday to add 173 acres (at Six Points Road and Jumer Drive) to the enterprise zone for new housing, retail, and mixed-use development.
The adjustments aim to attract investments and boost economic growth locally.
Connect Transit will hold four feedback sessions from Jun.
2-5 at Western Ave Community Center, ISU Alumni Center, a library, and its Normal offices to review changes including a new route to ISU’s College of Engineering facility (opening in fall). The changes will start Aug. 16 when the facility opens.
Off Season Scrimmage
9:10-10:10 p.m. — Bloomington Ice Center — Free entry — Enjoy an exciting off-season ice hockey scrimmage showcasing local talent.
The Big Run - Bloomington, Illinois
5:00 p.m. — Tipton Trail Parking — $15 early registration — Celebrate Global Running Day with a community run and help support a great cause.
Revel In Red Concert
8 PM – 12 AM — The Castle Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the best of anthem rock from the 70s to today with special guests The Great Affairs.
Illinois Game Con 2026
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Interstate Center, Bloomington, IL — Admission fee varies — Explore vintage and new video games, compete in tournaments, and enjoy local artists at this vibrant gaming convention.
Route 66 Centennial Celebration
12-3 p.m. — One Normal Plaza — Free entry — Experience a nostalgic 1950s-themed event with family-friendly activities and classic vibes along the Mother Road.
Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show
7-11 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Tickets required — Enjoy a captivating tribute performance to Fleetwood Mac with special guest INKTRAIL.
Cosplay on a Budget Workshop
5:30-7:30 p.m. — Bloomington Public Library — Registration required — Learn how to create budget-friendly costumes from thrift stores and more in this engaging workshop.
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